In a recent government meeting, officials unveiled the \"Home Key Plus\" program, an initiative designed to expand upon California's existing Home Key program, which has successfully funded over 250 projects and provided more than 15,000 housing units for individuals at risk of homelessness since its inception in 2021. The new program aims to expedite the construction of supportive housing, with a goal of making units available within 12 months of funding approval.

Home Key Plus will prioritize extremely low-income individuals and households facing homelessness, requiring at least five years of supportive services funding. The program will allow for the acquisition and rehabilitation of motels and hotels, as well as new construction, to create permanent supportive housing. The state plans to release a Notice of Funding Availability (NOFA) in November, with applications expected to open in early 2025.

Additionally, the meeting highlighted the Behavioral Health Services Act, which mandates that 30% of county allocations be directed towards housing interventions. This funding can be utilized for rental subsidies and supportive services, reinforcing the connection between health and housing outcomes. The act aims to ensure that local governments actively participate in addressing homelessness and mental health issues.

Officials also discussed the Bond Behavioral Health Infrastructure Program (B CHIP), which will allocate over $4 billion to enhance behavioral health treatment capacity across California. This funding is intended for the construction and renovation of facilities, with a focus on regional collaboration and partnerships.

Concerns were raised about the potential for unequal distribution of resources, as some regions may apply more aggressively for funding than others. Officials assured that regional targets would be established to ensure a balanced allocation of resources across the state.

The meeting concluded with discussions on the need for innovative approaches to reduce construction costs and timelines for new housing units, as rising prices have made it increasingly challenging to provide affordable housing solutions. The state is committed to exploring strategies to streamline processes and enhance the efficiency of housing development efforts.